US President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to resume nuclear weapons testing, ending a 33-year hiatus. The announcement came just before a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. Trump revealed the decision on Truth Social while aboard his Marine One helicopter, stating that the United States would begin testing its nuclear arsenal on “an equal basis” with other nuclear powers.
Trump’s decision follows escalating nuclear activities from countries like Russia and China. He expressed that nuclear testing was essential to ensure the US remains competitive, particularly as China has rapidly expanded its nuclear stockpile. Trump noted that China, which has more than doubled its nuclear arsenal in the last five years, would be on par with Russia within the next few years.
The move has sparked widespread concern. Experts argue that restarting nuclear tests could lead to a chain reaction, prompting other countries to resume testing, which could undermine the global nuclear non-proliferation treaty. Critics, including lawmakers and arms control advocates, have argued that the US has no need for nuclear explosive tests, citing no technical or political justification for such a step.
Trump’s decision comes on the heels of recent Russian and Chinese nuclear advancements. Russia recently tested nuclear-powered cruise missiles and torpedoes, while China is projected to possess over 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030. Meanwhile, the United States has an estimated 5,225 nuclear warheads, with Russia holding 5,580.
The US president’s stance has also drawn criticism for its potential to escalate tensions with Russia and China. As Trump continues to press for nuclear arms control negotiations, particularly with Russia and China, his push for renewed testing has highlighted the growing complexity of global nuclear diplomacy.
Super helpful — bookmarked for future reference.